Sydney Swans coach John Longmire has warned critics to be wary of Kurt Tippett’s role in the side before being critical of the 203cm big man.

Tippett has kicked 19 goals from 10 games this season, playing a key role as back up ruckman to Mike Pyke.

Longmire said those being critical of Tippett had to ensure they were educated on the role he plays within the side.

"We don't take any notice of outside criticism,” Longmire said.

“If you look at the stat sheet only, he was the equal highest goalkicker on the ground and did some ruck work but we also know he can take a few more marks and get himself into positions to give himself even more opportunities.

“His contribution has been going ok without setting the world on fire but as with a number of players we know we can get better from the last few weekends.”

"If you look at his time here he's been taking some contested marks and hitting the scoreboard really well. Maybe just the last few weeks he hasn't taken as many marks as he would've liked."

Tippett’s move into the ruck has helped free up teammate Sam Reid to be able to play a more versatile role across the ground.

Longmire said the role Tippett had played was important in increasing the club’s hit outs to advantage in 2015.

"The role is not purely a forward role,” he said.

“It's hard to measure just on marks and goals alone, a lot of ruck work is involved now and we flagged that over the summer to be able to increase our hit-outs to advantage which we've been able to do and have some more options in the ruck area."

"We've been pleased with extra flexibility in the team which allows other blokes to do other things," Longmire said.

"That's the balance we've been trying to get right. Some weeks we get it right some weeks we don't.

Tippett is expected to line up against North Melbourne on Saturday night despite being subbed from the ground late in the fourth quarter on Saturday afternoon.

“We subbed him off because he had a couple of tenditinitis issues and we want to manage his load but he will be right to train this Thursday,” he said.